Is Willow Sequel Finally in the Works?

In today’s world of endless streaming services, it is easy to ask if they really worth it. I think the answer is an emphatic yes. In the movie world, execs have to ask one question – Will this movie make the Studio money? If not they won’t make it. Television wants shows that will last more than one season. With streaming services opening up the market to smaller productions, many projects that would normally never see the light of day are becoming reality. So it may be with the long awaited Willow sequel.

Willow came out in 1987. Every aspect from the acting to the special effects is very 80s. It even stars Val Kilmer, a star who hasn’t been big since the 80s. The box office was not great, but as it is with most mid level fantasy movies, it gained a rather large cult following. Fans have been screaming for a Willow sequel for decades. Now with Disney+ it may becoming a reality.

‘Opie’ Returning To Direct Willow Sequel

NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 07: Ron Howard arrives at the “In The Heart Of The Sea” New York Premiere at Frederick P. Rose Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center on December 7, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images)

Ron Howard directed the first Willow on the heels of successful movies like Splash, Cocoon, and Gung Ho. Now, according to comingsoon.net, it appears he is in “serious discussions” with Disney+ to make it happen. Ron said that he was working with legendary script writer Jonathan Kasdan on the project.

Warwick Davis is reportedly all-in, assuming the project gets rolling. “Warwick is so cool and so good and he’s such a good actor that I really hope we get the chance to see the mature Willow in action,” noted Howard.Any other characters would depend on script.

While We Wait…

While waiting for this series to reach the new streaming service, they can track down the 1990s books The Chronicles of the Shadow Wars from the mind of George Lucas and the pen of the great Chris Claremont of X-Men comic fame. Shadow Moon, Shadow Star and Shadow Dawn follow an older, more wisened Willow Uffgood as he helps a 16 year old Elora Dannon fulfill her prophecy.

I recently had a chance to talk with Chris Claremont about the books at Planet Comicon in Kansas City. He had some amazing tales to tell about conversing with George and writing the books. They are well worth the read.

Thanks to the streaming services, we are getting The Dark Crystal sequel coming from Netflix, Willow from Disney+ as well as various other Star Wars and Marvel character shows we would be unable to get otherwise. Let’s hope Willow finally gets its green light.